The ASCVD Risk Calculator estimates your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. For adults 40-79, it calculates your 10-year risk. For adults under 40, it shows your lifetime risk - helping you understand your long-term heart health.

The calculator uses proven medical guidelines (called Pooled Cohort Equations) to analyze your risk factors including age, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, smoking status, and diabetes. It combines these factors to give you a personalized risk score.

ASCVD stands for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease - conditions where plaque builds up in your arteries, leading to heart attacks and strokes.

This calculator is for adults of all ages without existing heart disease. If you're 40-79, you'll get a 10-year risk estimate. If you're under 40, you'll see your lifetime risk. If you already have heart disease, talk to your doctor about your specific risk management.

10-year risk (for ages 40-79) shows your chances of heart attack or stroke in the next decade. Lifetime risk (for under 40) shows your overall risk throughout your life. Lifetime risk is especially useful for younger adults to understand the importance of early prevention.

You'll need: your age, sex, total cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, whether you take blood pressure medication, if you have diabetes, and if you smoke.

The ASCVD calculator is based on data from large population studies and is recommended by the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. However, it's a starting point for discussion with your doctor, not a final diagnosis.

Share your results with your doctor. They can help you understand what your risk means for you personally and discuss lifestyle changes or medications that might help lower your risk.

Yes! Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, exercising regularly, eating a heart-healthy diet, and managing stress can significantly reduce your risk. For younger adults, starting these habits early can dramatically lower lifetime risk. Your doctor may also recommend medications if appropriate.